The Best Jackets for Spring (and Transitional Weather)

Is it just me or can dressing for the spring feel particularly challenging? While I’m the first to crave warm and sunnier weather, I feel like that’s largely why putting together a spring outfit can be hard—it’s not quite warm enough for your summer wardrobe yet it’s too toasty for your winter wear. This is where having some well-rounded pieces for transitional weather comes in handy.

You might think that you don’t need pieces in your wardrobe that are specifically for transitional weather, but let me be the first to tell you that you’ll get tons of wear from these staples. Whether you’re heading from winter to spring or summer to fall, stocking your closet with a variety of layers is key to putting together a practical outfit.

When it comes to spring jackets in particular, there are so many options you can choose from. However, I do think that there are certain pieces that will serve you more throughout the years. Think of the classics that won’t go out of style, like trench coats, tweed jackets, and cardigans, for example.

To get you through this in-between season, I’m rounding up some of the best jackets for spring below. I’m also including ideas on what to style each layer with. This way, getting ready in the morning won’t be such a big task—regardless of the forecast.

The Best Jackets for Spring

A Trench Coat

While I have always loved the timeless look a trench coat offers, you all have proven to be big fans of the layer this spring. This exact trench coat has been one of my top sellers this month, and for good reason. It’s an investment piece that you’ll have for years to come, and one you’ll be happy to have on rotation throughout many seasons.

Whether it’s a dewy spring morning or a crisp fall night, a trench coat looks so chic over a basic pair of jeans and a white tee. Add some sneakers and sunglasses for an effortless outfit for everyday wear. Craving even more comfort? Swap the jeans for leggings and the t-shirt for a crewneck sweater (like I’m wearing in the photo below.)

If you’re shopping for a trench coat on a budget, this one and this one are two good options. You could also opt for something colored, like a light green trench or navy blue.

A Denim Jacket

Another year-round classic: a denim jacket. They’re one of the easiest pieces to style because they pair well with just about everything, and they also can be dressed up or down. Heading out to run errands? Throw on a romper and a jean jacket. Going to dinner with your friends? Slip a denim jacket over your shoulders. The options are robust when it comes to this wardrobe essential.

In addition to many styling options, a major benefit to a denim jacket is that once you have one in your closet, it will last you for a long time. Because it’s such a simple staple, it won’t go out of style.

I also love that there are so many different options when it comes to choosing a denim jacket. You could go with something more relaxed and oversized or one that fits snug and looks more polished. There are also a handful of color options you can pick from, like classic blue, white, or black. This denim shirt jacket would also be so cute to style this spring!

A Cardigan

A cardigan is an obvious go-to when layering in the spring, and I personally love how feminine and versatile this option is. Cardigans are ideal for transitional weather because there are so many types to choose from, whether you need more coverage or you want something lightweight.

Go with a button-up cardigan when dressing for brunch with your husband, or a long cardigan for early spring soccer games that are on the chillier side.

Cardigans can be worn with dresses, jeans, shorts, rompers, leggings—you name it! They also aren’t a pain to carry around if you get too warm, which is a major perk if you ask me (you could even set one over your shoulders.)

Consider adding a cardigan in a pretty spring color to your closet, like this light green or pale purple find—both would look so cute with straight leg jeans, a white tank, and some slingback heels. Even this light brown collarless cardigan feels seasonally appropriate.

Oh, and while a zip-up jacket doesn’t exactly fall into the “cardigan” category, I’m also including a photo of how I styled a recent spring look with one draped over my shoulders. This is another great option for those in-between weather days.

An Anorak Jacket

There’s no denying that spring weather is often accompanied by lots and lots of rain. For those days when you have to go out and about while it’s drizzling, reach for an anorak jacket.

The green khaki coat I’m wearing below is sold out in most sizes, but it’s fully stocked in this fun gold color, which would undoubtedly add some joy to a dreary day. This white option would look cute with an all-denim look, and this long coat would be a smart layer choice on a particularly rainy day.

Anorak jackets (aka rain jackets) are clearly a practical option when it comes to spring layers. Even if you don’t live somewhere that sees a lot of rain, it’s nice to have one on hand in case the weather turns unfavorable.

A Tweed Jacket

The texture and pretty patterns on tweed jackets make them a no-brainer to layer with during transitional seasons. Sure, they work great in the fall and winter, but they can also give your outfits a dose of visual interest in the spring.

Despite looking so elevated, tweed jackets are actually quite comfortable. And another perk is that they can be thrown on over t-shirts or tank tops for a quick, everyday look.

Style one with a pair of jeans and loafers, or swap the loafers out for heels if you’re going for a more formal vibe. Either way, this is another timeless piece that I’m confident you’ll reach for time and time again—in the spring and beyond.

What’s your go-to layer in the spring? Let me know in the comment section below.